KSA Expats Blog
Practical Saudi guides, news updates and explainers for expats living and working in the Kingdom.
How to Get a Driving License in Saudi Arabia (2026)
So you’ve arrived in the Kingdom. The sun is blazing, the highways are wide, and everyone around you seems to be driving with great confidence — and sometimes,…
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Saudi Arabia to Start Issuing 1448 AH Umrah Visas From May 31
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the upcoming key dates for the 1448 AH Umrah season. According to the ministry’s 1448 AH Umrah calendar, the issuance…
Health Ministry Explains Hajj Vaccine Booking Process on Sehhaty Platform
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has explained how pilgrims can book Hajj vaccinations through “Sehhaty,” the government’s official digital health app, ahead of the 1447 AH Hajj season.…
How to Check Huroob Status in Saudi Arabia (2026)
Most expats in Saudi Arabia don’t think about huroob until something goes wrong — a blocked Iqama renewal, a failed job transfer, or a sudden restriction on Absher.…
How Much Does It Cost to Withdraw Money Abroad with a Mada Card?
Planning a trip back home? Before you land and head to the nearest ATM, there’s something worth knowing: using your Saudi mada card for cash withdrawals abroad isn’t…
How to Get a Salary Certificate Through Qiwa in Saudi Arabia
A salary certificate is an official document that confirms your employment and outlines exactly what you earn. It is an officially issued digital document linked to your employment…
How to Open an Al Rajhi Bank Account Online in Saudi Arabia (2026 Guide)
If you’ve just arrived in Saudi Arabia or recently got your Iqama, one of the first things on your to-do list is opening a bank account. Al Rajhi…
SFDA Issues Medication Clearance Guidelines for Hajj Pilgrims
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has outlined the regulations and procedures for pilgrims who need to carry medications containing narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances for personal…
Hajj Leave in Saudi Arabia: HRSD Clarifies Rules for Private Sector Employees
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has published guidelines detailing the conditions under which employees in the Kingdom are entitled to paid leave to…
Hajj 2026: Makkah Entry Permit Eligibility & Rules
If you’re an expat living in Saudi Arabia, this is one announcement you really cannot afford to ignore right now. Saudi Arabia has officially activated its Makkah entry…
Saudi Arabia Extends Expired Visas for Stranded Visitors Amid Regional Unrest
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has announced measures to address the status of foreign nationals holding expired visas who have been unable to leave the Kingdom due to…
Hajj 2026 Package Bookings Open for Domestic Pilgrims
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced the launch of the booking phase for Hajj packages for those wishing to perform the pilgrimage from within Saudi Arabia, including…